A patient with an upper gastrointestinal bleed asks why an endoscopy needs to be done. What should the nurse respond to this patient? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. The purpose of an endoscopy in patients with an acute GI bleed is to establish the site and etiology of the bleed.
2. During an endoscopy for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, injection therapy can be done to stop the bleeding. Through direct visualization, the site may be injected with a variety of agents to sclerose, vasoconstrict, or cause a tamponade effect.
3. Mechanical techniques to control gastrointestinal bleeding include the use of endoclips. These clips achieve hemostasis by compressing the tissue together. Its action is similar to that of a surgical stitch. Depending on the situation, multiple clips may be applied.
4. An endoscopy is not done to determine the amount of blood replacement the patient needs.
5. An endoscopy is not done to identify antibiotics to aid in the treatment.

A Patient with an Upper Gastrointestinal Bleed Asks Why an Endoscopy